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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Wonho Confirms Next Comeback

Wonho’s new single, Blue, is finally out and WENEEs are loving the second mini-album Blue Letter. But what’s with the obsession with the color blue? The former Monsta X member revealed that blue is an important color for him that is connected to his fans. In addition to that, Lee Hoseok has confirmed that he’s already hard at work on his next comeback.

Back in August, Wonho announced his second mini-album Blue Letter will be released in September. Like the previous two-part EP Love Synonym Pt.1: Right for Me and Love Synonym Pt.2: Right for Us, the new album has a blue theme.

So why is there so much blue? Wonho told NME that the color holds a special place in his heart since it reminds him of WENEEs.

When I look at my fans, they remind me of the color blue. I can see the color blue when I see my fans. That’s how I started using the color blue [in my concepts]. It’s since become my signature color… and my fans love it too. Blue is also a color that’s able to best represent the emotions that I feel, so that’s why I keep using it,” Wonho said.

He further explained that blue is usually associated with being sad but Wonho was determined to change that.

“I wanted ‘blue’ to serve a double meaning of ‘feeling blue’ and… to flip the meaning of feeling blue to ‘feeling loved’, in context of the album,” he said.


This is especially true with Blue Letter, which Wonho says is a gift for WENEEs who are going through some hardships.

It’s my message to those who are feeling lost, depressed or having a hard time,” he said. “I hope they get good vibes and positive energy from listening to my album and gain strength to overcome what they’re going through.

If it sounds like WENEEs are a truly spoiled fandom, that’s because Wonho is determined to keep making his fans happy. The soloist stated that he is now working on new music for his supporters and even revealed some details about the next album.

I’m actually already planning for my next album at the moment,” Wonho said. “I’m exploring a stronger, hip-hop sound, and I can’t wait for my fans to listen to it.

There’s a good reason why Wonho is all about his fans. The former MONSTA X member had previously admitted that it was the support from his fans that helped him get through his own troubles. This is why he wants to give back all the love he has received during those dark times in his life.

Wonho’s second mini-album Blue Letter was released on September 14.

Blue teaser #1. Photo: WONHO Official/Twitter
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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

aespa Confirms First Mini-Album “Savage” for October Release

AESPA is ready for a comeback and this time, they’re releasing a mini-album! Karina, Giselle, Winter, and Ningning have announced Savage, their first EP that’s dropping in October.

The official aespa Twitter account had previously teased the comeback with a visual teaser. MYs were mystified by the video which showed a floating Savage avatar and fans were hoping it meant another comeback this year.

Luckily, aespa made it official as it was confirmed that Savage will be the girl group’s first mini-album, to be released on October 5, 2021.

It will be the girl group’s first EP since they debuted with Black Mamba in November 2020.

aespa’s first physical album will have six songs, and SM Entertainment has confirmed that pre-orders for SAVAGE are now available.

That gives MYs a lot of time to prepare for the comeback and the fans are thrilled that Karina, Giselle, Winter, and Ningning will be back this October.

Aespa debuted on November 17, 2020 with their hit single Black Mamba. They followed it up with Next Level in May this year, and have dropped the Habstrakt Remix on September 14.

Aespa’s first physical album Savage and its title track of the same name will be out on October 5, 2021.

aespa 에스파 ‘Next Level (Habstrakt Remix)’ MV Teaser. Photo:SMTOWNGLOBAL/Twitter
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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

IU Celebrates 13th Anniversary, Donates Over $70,000 for the Underprivileged

IU is celebrating her 13th anniversary in the most generous way possible. The charismatic multi-hyphenate has donated over KRW850 million (US$70,000) worth of goods to several charities and organizations in South Korea. The donation will help underprivileged people especially children and teenagers.

IU’s agency EDAM Entertainment confirmed the news, revealing that Lee Jieun made the donation happen on her own. The Hotel Del Luna actress reportedly spoke with companies she has promoted, convincing them to aid in her cause. As a result, IU was able to collect several donations that will be given to numerous organizations.

The full list of IU’s 13th-anniversary donations is listed below.

  • 2,000 coats and winter gear from BLACKYAK for children and teenagers in shelters ahead of the winter season
  • 2,000 Banolim pizzas for children and teenagers in shelters
  • 2,000 first aid kits from Kyungdong Pharmaceutical to health centers
  • 1,000 pairs of New Balance sneakers to teenagers who are nearing the end of their allowed time at shelters
  • 30,000 bottles of Jeju Samdasoo Water to health centers
  • 300 Evezari blanket and bedding sets to health centers

This isn’t the first time that IU has gone all out on donating to the less fortunate. The singer-songwriter has consistently made donations throughout her long career. In May 2021 alone, The Nation’s Sweetheart donated KRW10,000,000 to Yangpyeong county to aid single-parent families and grandparents raising grandchildren. IU had donated a total of KRW500,000,000 to several organizations and charities aiding women and children.

IU debuted in 2008 at the age of 15 and has since gone on to become one of South Korea’s most successful celebrities. But all that success has never gone to her head and that’s why she’s still considered The Nation’s Sweetheart.

IU is celebrating her 13th anniversary since her debut on September 18, 2021.

IU 5th Album LILAC. Photo:_IUofficial/Twitter
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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Chaeyoung Confirms TWICE Is Preparing For a New Album

Chaeyoung has confirmed for TWICE that the girl group has already recorded their new album.

TWICE’s official YouTube channel recently dropped the “Chaeyoung x OhBoy! Behind The Scenes” video showing the rapper having fun at the photoshoot. Chaeyoung also answered a few questions in-between takes.

The TWICE member spoke about the magazine’s concept for the issue. At one point, Son Chaeyoung was asked what she has been doing with her time. Her response confirmed that the girl group has been busy recording new songs!

I’m relaxing and working. Recording and preparing for the next album. We recorded already,” Chaeyoung said.

This is great news for ONCEs who have been waiting for new music from TWICE. In June, the girls released their 10th EP, Taste of Love with the title track Alcohol-Free.” TWICE also dropped their Japanese album Perfect World in July. In true album promotion fashion, one can only hope that this also means seeing more of TWICE on variety shows.

There have been speculations as to what TWICE has been up to these days, but that’s just that. While Chaeyoung did not reveal whether TWICE recorded a single album, another EP, or a full album, it has been announced that they will release their first English single The Feels on October 1, 2021.

Oh Boy! Issue 111 featuring Chaeyoung on the cover is now out.

Featured image: Chaeyoung confirms TWICEs new album during OhBoy! 오보이매거진 interview. Photo: TWICE/YouTube
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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

New K-pop Drops: BLACKPINK’s Lisa, MONSTA X, TXT, and More

It’s been an exciting past week in K-pop, thanks to the hot new music drops after Labor Day. We got the solo debut of BLACKPINK’s Lisa, and the first comeback from promising girl group PURPLE KISS. MONSTA X has returned with another English single, and TOMORROW X TOGETHER dropped a hot remix featuring MOD SUN. On top of all that, it couple HyunA & DAWN finally made their debut as a musical duo.

SEPTEMBER 6

DAY6’s Young K: Guard You

The DAY6 bassist and rapper has released his first solo album Eternal with the gorgeous title track Guard You. The mini-album features seven songs that were written and produced by Kang Younghyun himself. The EP is a gift for MYDAYs ahead of Young K’s military enlistment in October 2021.

OMEGA X: WHAT’S GOIN’ ON

It’s only been three months since the 11-member rookie group debuted but now they’re back with a darkly sexy single album. Hangyeom, Jaehan, Hwichan, Sebin, Taedong, Xen, Jehyun, Kevin, Junghoon, Hyuk, and Yechan are proving their drive for excellence. OMEGA X has also revealed their official fandom name, FOR X.

SEPTEMBER 7

MAMAMOO’s Solar: Always, be with you (Lovers of the Red Sky OST)

Kim Yongsun turns in a breathtaking ballad for the Lovers of the Red Sky OST. The MV features Hong Cheon Gi (Kim Yoo Jung) as she slowly falls for Ha Ram (Ahn Hyo Seop). Solar also joined MAMAMOO on their “best of” album,  released on September 15.

SEPTEMBER 8

PURPLE KISS: Zombie

The promising rookie girl group is back just six months after their debut with a new mini-album Hide & Seek. The title track Zombie is a refreshing take on zombies that shows off the girls’ unique vibe.

FUN FACT: The boy in the MV is played by ONEWE bassist Cya, who co-wrote the song with members Dosie and Yuki.

SEPTEMBER 9

HyunA & DAWN: PING PONG

The power couple has officially debuted as a musical duo with the mini-album 1+1=1. The bright and energetic MV for PING PONG showcases the unique, individual styles of HyunA & DAWN that always complement each other.

Lee Hi: Red Lipstick (Feat. 윤미래)

Lee Hayi is back with her fourth studio album 4 Only and the LP proves the soloist’s distinct versatility. For instance, the funky title track Red Lipstick featuring rapper Yoon Mirae doesn’t sound anything like the pre-release song Savior (feat B.I.), yet, the songs still feel like they should be in the same album.

SEPTEMBER 10

BLACKPINK’s Lisa: LALISA

Lalisa Manoban in your area! The Blackpink rapper and main dancer is here with her first solo single album which proudly chants her real name. While the track is clearly all about Lisa, it vibes the same sound and energy that Blinks love.

MONSTA X: One Day

MONSTA X is back with another English track and yes, it’s another emotional breakup song from the idol group. One Day was released early on audio streaming services, several hours before the official MV was dropped. The music video features leader Shownu who had enlisted for military service in July.

TXT: 0X1=LOVESONG (I Know I Love You) feat. MOD SUN

The new remix for TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s hit single is finally here and it is just as energetic as the original track. MOD SUN and TXT have both been hyping up the remix’s release and with its awesome MV, it was all worth the (brief) wait.

BLACKPINK’s Lisa Manoban finally releases her solo debut, LALISA. Photo: BLACKPINK/YouTube
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BTS FEATURES LATEST STORIES

Watch: BTS’s 3J Special Performance Video for “Butter feat. Megan Thee Stallion” Remix

3J—BTS’s dance line—is back with a performance nothing short of euphoria.

Watch J-Hope, Jimin, and Jungkook as they dance their way to our hearts (or, quoting Jin in Festa 2021 Chicken Noodle Soup performance, poppin poppin poppin poppin poppin poppin poppin) featuring the Megan Thee Stallion remix:

ARMYs were quick to appreciate the new video and could not stop gushing about Jung Hoseok, Park Jimin, and Jeon Jungkook’s cheeky performance of the Butter feat. Megan Thee Stallion remix (which also coincides with Butter climbing back to the top of Billboard’s Hot 100 chart).

ARMYs have been looking forward to the return of 3J since BTS dropped the teaser on their official Twitter account:

 

Considering it’s been three years since BTS’s dance line owned the iconic Idol stage at the 2018 MMA, it’s almost a given that they have made us fall like that.

The BTS x Megan Thee Stallion Butter remix finally dropped on August 27, after the Houston-born rapper revealed her label was against the release. Thank the maker, a judge ruled in favor of Megan Thee Stallion and now here we are, enjoying this comforting treat from 3J.

Featured image: BTS’s dance line drops a special performance video for Megan Thee Stallion “Butter” remix. Photo: BANGTANTV/YouTube
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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Lee Hi Thanks B.I. For “Savior” Collaboration

“An extremely loyal friend.” That’s how Lee Hi calls former iKON member B.I.

The “No One” singer recently appeared as a guest on NAVER NOW, where she discussed her new album 4 Only. She also talked about her latest collaboration with former YG label-mate Kim Hanbin, expressing her gratitude for collaborating with her in the new song Savior.

“I want to relay my thanks toward B.I for featuring (in my album),” Lee Hi said. It’s a sweet shoutout considering that the two have collaborated numerous times in the past.

The former K-pop Star Season 1 contestant also spoke about her friendship with B.I., who had previously worked on her song “No One”.

“He called me a loyal friend in an interview that he did, but I think he is also an extremely loyal friend,” Lee Hi said. She then addressed a message to the former iKON rapper. “Hanbin, thanks to you I think a good music video was able to come out.”

It’s no secret that Lee Hi and B.I. make great music together. The two have worked together on several songs in the past. Their most recent collaboration before “Savior” was on the track “Daydream”, which was featured in Hanbin’s debut solo album Waterfall.

Their collab song “Savior” debuted days before the launch of Lee Hi’s latest album. In the music video, she and B.I. played childhood sweethearts who went through several hardships as her character was sick. The chemistry in the MV proves that Hayi and Kim Hanbin truly enjoy working together.

Lee Hi’s fourth studio album 4 Only was released on Thursday, September 9, 2021.

Featured image: Lee Hi and B.I. collaborate for “Savior” track in Ha-yi’s fourth studio album, 4 Only. Photo: AOMGOFFICIAL/YouTube
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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

VICTON’s Hanse Solo Debut Confirmed

Just in time for his birthday, VICTON’s Hanse is finally dropping his first solo album this September.

VICTON’s label, Play M Entertainment, has announced that Do Hanse’s solo album will be released on September 25, 2021. Although details were not immediately available, ALICEs were immediately thrilled with the news. After all, the album is set to be released on Hanse’s birthday this year.

There is a good reason why ALICEs are hyped up over the news. In late 2020, Hanse confirmed that he is working on his first mixtape. The VICTON main rapper shared the news on his official Instagram account, adding that he doesn’t know when it will be released.

Hanse also admitted that he wanted to release the album before the end of 2020. However, the mixtape had to be put on hold in favor of VICTON’s comeback. (The comeback was also delayed to January 2021).

The delay of Hanse’s mixtape has been hard on the rapper, who was eager to share his music with his fans. There were hopes that it would be released earlier this year but Play M had been quiet with the updates. By then, ALICEs were concerned that the mixtape will never see the light of day. To be fair, fans also speculated that Hanse was still working on his music.


Luckily, ALICEs can finally get to hear Hanse’s new music. It’s been a long wait for the “HanSolo” and fans are already looking forward to its release. Everyone is eager to embrace the new music considering that it will be released on Hanse’s birthday.

Fans already know that Hanse’s self-produced songs vibe a distinct style. The VICTON main rapper is already known for writing his own songs and producing music. Back in 2019, Do Hanse dropped his self-produced track Hallelujah and it was well-received by ALICEs.

Hanse is the second VICTON member to release a solo album after Seungwoo, who has already released two solo efforts. This will be Do Hanse’s first solo endeavor since he debuted with the idol group in 2016.

Hanse’s still-untitled solo album will be released on Saturday, September 25, 2021.

Featured image: VICTON Hanse ALICE Concept image. Photo: VICTON1109/Twitter
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BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s “Butter” Races Back To No. 1 On Billboard Hot 100

Butter, BTS’s digital single of summer 2021, has officially returned to the top spot on Billboard Hot 100. The song has now spent 10 weeks at the summit, giving RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook another major achievement.

Butter has always been a mainstay on the Billboard Hot 100, comfortable in the Top 10 since its release. The single would then rise back up to Number 1 whenever BTS drops a new remix, such as the recent release of the BTS x Megan Thee Stallion Butter remix. The first time it left the top spot was when the Bangtan Boys’ own song, Permission to Dance, took over.

Also read: Conversations with BTS and Coldplay’s Chris Martin on YouTube’s Released

The BTS x Megan Thee Stallion “Butter” remix was released on August 27 after the American rapper appealed for its release. Megan had previously revealed that her label was against the version’s release, so she filed a petition asking for emergency relief. A judge ruled in favor of the Houston-born musician, allowing the song’s release.

The release of the Butter Megan Thee Stallion remix had encouraged ARMYs and Hotties to continue supporting the single. The effort ensured the song’s return to the top spot on Billboard Hot 100, and BTS was eager to reward their fans.

Behold, the amazing return of 3J.

On Wednesday, the BTS dance line dropped the “Butter” Megan Thee Stallion remix Special Performance Video. The sweet treat featured J-Hope, Jimin, and Jungkook showing off their swoon-worthy moves, to the tune of everyone hopint that 3J is here to stay.

Butter also drew 12.2 million radio airplay audience impressions this week, in addition to the 10.7 million U.S. streams and 143,000 downloads sold last week. The song is now expected to continue dominating the charts and sales, thanks to the relentless support of ARMYs and Hotties.

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FEATURES LATEST STORIES

MONSTA X Kihyun’s Cover of “Little Bit of Love” Gets Awesome Reaction From Tom Grennan

MONSTA X’s Kihyun has just performed an amazing cover of Tom Grennan’s “Little Bit of Love”. The gorgeous rendition has captured the attention of the original artist who is totally loving it!

Kihyun’s latest cover is once again a song that shows off his unique and versatile voice. The video for his “Little Bit of Love” cover features the MONSTA X main vocalist at the beach. However, it isn’t a sunny day and the winds appear to be moved by Yoo Kihyun’s emotional singing.

MONBEBEs were also moved by the “Little Bit of Love” cover and wanted to make sure Tom Grennan heard it. One MONBEBE tagged the English singer-songwriter in their comments and amazingly, Grennan retweeted it with his reaction to the rendition.


Tom Grennan was clearly impressed with Kihyun’s performance. The “Let’s Go Home Together” singer liked it so much that he shared it in his Instagram stories. This allowed his own fans to hear the MONSTA X vocalist’s emotional rendition.

But could this mean a possible collaboration? MONBEBEs and Tom Grennan fans would truly appreciate it. Hopefully, the two powerhouse artists will work together on a project soon.

https://twitter.com/starshipkr/status/1435612525450592263

This isn’t the first time that an international artist was pleased with Kihyun’s cover of their song. In April 2020, the MONSTA X vocalist sang his own version of Imagine Dragons’ “Natural”. The band loved the cover and drummer Daniel Plazman even left a comment on the tweet.

It’s great to know that Kihyun still has time to work on a cover despite being very busy. MONSTA X are currently preparing for the next comeback with the single “One Day”. The upcoming comeback will be the first for the group after leader Shownu’s military enlistment.

MONSTA X’s new single “One Day” will be released on Friday, September 10, 2021.

Featured image: MONSTA X Kihyun – Little Bit of Love. Photo: OfficialMonstaX/Twitter
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